Setting Up A WAN: Key Considerations and Best Practices

Have you ever wondered how businesses connect their different offices across the globe? Setting up a Wide Area Network (WAN) is crucial for organisations that operate in multiple locations. But what does it take to create a reliable and efficient WAN?

This article will explore the key considerations and best practices for setting up a WAN.
Whether you’re new to networking or have some experience, understanding what is WAN and how it functions is essential for your success. Let’s explore.

Key Considerations

Assessing Your Network Needs

Every setup starts with a thorough assessment of your network needs. Begin by evaluating the size of your organisation and the number of locations you need to connect. Consider the volume of data that will be transmitted across the network and the types of applications that will be used. Bandwidth is a key factor here. You’ll need more bandwidth if your business relies heavily on cloud services or video conferencing. Additionally, think about future growth.

Choosing the Right Technology

Selecting the appropriate technology is crucial for a successful setup. There are several technologies to choose from, each with its strengths and weaknesses. Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is popular for its reliability and performance. However, it can be expensive. On the other hand, Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) offers more flexibility and cost savings. It uses software to manage network traffic, making it easier to optimise performance. It’s also a good option for businesses with dynamic network needs.

Ensuring Network Security

Security is a top concern when setting up a WAN. Since your network will be transmitting data over long distances, it’s vulnerable to various threats. Implementing robust security measures is essential to protect sensitive information. Encryption is one of the most effective ways to secure your network. By encrypting data, you ensure that it remains confidential during transmission. Additionally, firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help prevent unauthorised access to your network.

Optimising Network Performance

Performance optimisation is another critical aspect of WAN setup. A poorly optimised network can lead to slow data transfer rates and network congestion. To avoid this, you need to implement strategies that enhance network efficiency. One such strategy is Quality of Service (QoS). QoS allows you to prioritise certain types of network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth. Additionally, regular network performance monitoring can help identify and resolve issues before they impact your business operations.

Planning for Redundancy and Failover

Even the most well-designed WANs can experience downtime. Therefore, planning for redundancy and failover is essential. Redundancy involves having backup systems in place to ensure continuous network availability in case of a failure. Failover mechanisms automatically switch to backup systems when the primary network fails. This minimises downtime and keeps your business running smoothly. Consider implementing multiple connections from different service providers to enhance your network’s resilience.

Managing Network Costs

Cost management is a vital consideration when setting up a WAN. The costs associated with setup can quickly add up, especially if you’re using high-end technologies like MPLS. To manage costs effectively, it’s important to balance performance with affordability. SD-WAN can be a cost-effective alternative, offering lower operational costs without compromising performance. Additionally, regularly reviewing your network usage can help identify areas where you can cut costs without impacting service quality.

Regular Maintenance and Upgrades

Finally, regular maintenance and upgrades are key to keeping your WAN in top shape. Networks require ongoing maintenance to ensure they continue to operate efficiently. Regular software updates and hardware upgrades can prevent issues and improve performance. Additionally, staying informed about the latest advancements in this technology can help you make informed decisions about future upgrades.

Setting up a WAN requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. From understanding what is WAN to choosing the right technology and ensuring network security, each step plays a crucial role in the success of your network. Remember, a well-designed network is an investment in your business’s future.